Yellow-head wrasse
Halichoeres leucoxanthus
This modest-sized wrasse has an elongated body and a bright yellow head extending to the pectoral fin. The rest of the body is blue-green with silvery reflections. Adult males develop blue stripes on the head and a black spot on the dorsal fin. The caudal fin is slightly forked. It feeds by sifting through sand and debris, capturing small invertebrates. It is a diurnal fish that sleeps buried in the substrate. It is generally peaceful but may defend its territory against conspecifics.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–28 |
| pH | 8.1–8.4 |
| GH | 8–12 |
| KH | 7–12 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 20 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 0.1 |
Care
Care notes
An aquarium of at least 150 liters with a fine sandy substrate is recommended. Temperature should be 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4. This wrasse is carnivorous and accepts frozen foods such as mysis, brine shrimp and small worms. It can be kept in a group if the tank is large enough, but only one male is advised. It cohabits well with other peaceful reef fish. Avoid very small invertebrates. Moderate lighting and moderate flow are suitable. Regular water changes (10% weekly) are necessary.